Meet Nicholas Howard Duffield, a seasoned hot air balloon pilot from the UK with a remarkable 3,393 hours of flight time and over 30 years of flying experience. His journey began with a simple desire – to work in the African wilderness. But when he discovered ballooning was being introduced in the Serengeti back in the 1980s, his life took a new direction that would lead to decades in the skies.

Nicholas holds a South African Commercial Pilot License (Groups 1–4) and a dormant UK CPL B. He has also completed maintenance training with both Cameron Balloons and Lindstrand Balloons, bringing a wealth of technical and operational knowledge to his flights.

His most memorable moment? His first solo flight, completed at the end of his examination in the stunning Magalies River Valley, where he still lives today, a moment he calls the most special feeling you will only experience once in your life.

Flying in Africa’s bushveld remains his favorite setting – a place where, for an hour, he feels totally free in his favorite environment. He ensures passenger safety with meticulous planning and preparation, from thorough pre-flight checks to detailed briefings that leave guests confident and comfortable before takeoff.

When not in the skies, Nicholas enjoys wildlife, camping, motorcycling, golf, music (he still plays drums and guitar), reading history, and spending time with his family and dogs. He’s had the honour of flying with Dr. Markus Borner, former Head of FZS, and says he wouldn’t mind sharing a ride with Jeremy Clarkson either.

His advice for first-time passengers is simple:
“Choose a beautiful place to fly, and go with a certified, fully insured operator with experienced pilots.”

He encourages guests to leave their phones behind for just an hour, bring a real camera, and embrace the moment.